Finnish Officer appointed new Deputy Commander of the European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique

Born in Lappajärvi, a small Finnish municipality of around 3,500 inhabitants, Colonel Keskinen’s roots are deeply connected to a place shaped by history and nature. His hometown is known for its lake, formed by a meteorite impact approximately 80 million years ago — a symbol of resilience and time, much like the military career he would later build.

Despite serving abroad, Lappajärvi remains close to his heart, where his father and brother still live, and which he visits whenever his duties allow.

Colonel Keskinen joined the Finnish Armed Forces in 1987 during his mandatory military service. He later graduated from the Military Academy in 1991 and has now completed 34 years of dedicated service. His academic qualifications include a General Staff Officer's degree from the National Defence University in Helsinki and a Master's degree in International Relations from the University of Leicester.

Throughout his career, he has held a wide range of leadership positions. While he values every appointment, he highlights his time as a Company Commander as particularly meaningful, having later served as Battalion Commander, Deputy Brigade Commander, Finnish Military Representative to the United Nations and Director of the Tactical Command and Staff College.

Behind the uniform, there is also a strong human story. Among the most memorable moments of his life are the births of his children — including a story he shares with a warm smile about leading a live-fire exercise 200 kilometres away when his second child was born, arriving 20 minutes too late, still in his dusty uniform. 

European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique, 2025

Outside duty, Colonel Keskinen is a black belt in judo and remains physically active through trail running, mobility training and cross-country skiing — sports that reflect both discipline and balance.

Arriving in Mozambique for the first time, he describes the experience as inspiring, highlighting the enthusiasm and dedication of those involved in the mission.

Asked what he brought with him from his hometown, he replies simply: “Perhaps my spirit and life experience.”

Colonel Keskinen also embraces the mission with optimism, stating that he looks forward to contributing with an open mind and a smile — a mindset deeply rooted in Finnish culture.

EUMAM MOZ is a non-executive European Union mission with a mandate until June 2026, supporting the Mozambican Armed Defence Forces (FADM) by strengthening the sustainability of the Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) and integrating them into a robust and autonomous operational cycle. The mission currently comprises more than 80 military personnel from 12 nations.